Kerala crushes Punjab 4–0 to enter Santosh Trophy final

Kerala booked their place in the final for a second successive year after cruising to a commanding 4–0 victory over Punjab. Muhammad Ajsal opened the scoring in the 15th minute, powering home a header to set the tone. Kerala maintained their dominance and doubled the advantage in the 34th minute through Muhammad Riyas.

The contest was effectively settled before the interval as Viknesh M struck again to make it 3–0 at half-time. Punjab struggled to respond after the break, with the pace of the game easing. Kerala, however, still found time for a fourth goal late on, Riyas netting his second of the match. Kerala will meet Services in the final. (With inputs from Agencies)